Tag: Police

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FEATURE: Operation Fearless – introducing a dedicated High Street police team after over 140 arrests made in and around Erdington Town Centre

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Operation Fearless

Operation Fearless has made a significant impact on Erdington High Street since it launched in January this year, with 140 people arrested so far and the seizure of dangerous weapons and hard drugs from in and around Erdington Town Centre.

West Midlands Police have also now established a dedicated Erdington High Street police team, with a Sergeant leading six officers focused on crime and anti-social behaviour in the retail and shopping hub.

Giving Erdington Local readers the latest information on the special policing initiative, Detective Superintendent Jim Munro – the officer leading the Operation Fearless team – has a direct update for Erdington locals and residents.

Words by DSI Jim Munro / Pics supplied by Operation Fearless

Operation Fearless lead Detective – Detective Superintendent Jim Munro / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

“We’ve made a really big step in making Erdington High Street a safer place. Since January, we’ve arrested over 140 people. This is a huge number and shows that we’re really listening to what you’ve been telling us.

“You were worried, and rightly so, about feeling unsafe walking down the High Street. You told us about shops being targeted, about drugs causing problems, and about the fear of violence. We heard you loud and clear.

“We’ve also taken dangerous weapons off the streets of Erdington before they could do any harm, seizing a live firearm, a zombie knife and multiple other weapons in separate incidents.

“We’ve arrested dangerous individuals for a whole range of offences including – robbery, burglary, assault, shop theft and much more. Other successful arrests saw one man arrested for child sex offences, and another for domestic kidnap.

Officers talking to members of the public on Erdington High Street / Photograhp taken by Ed King

“This success isn’t just because of the police. It’s because of you, the people who live here in Erdington.

“You called us when you saw something suspicious, you shared information with us, and you trusted us to do our jobs. Without your help, without you being our eyes and ears on the ground, we couldn’t have achieved this. We’re so thankful for all your support.

“And the good news doesn’t stop there. We’re hearing from you that things are changing. You’re telling us you feel safer in the area and businesses are noticing a real difference too. That’s exactly the kind of change we wanted to see.

“But we know we can’t stop now. We need to keep this momentum going, keep pushing for a safer Erdington. That’s why we’re putting a dedicated High Street team in place.

DSI Munro, PCC Simon Foster, Paulette Hamilton MP talking to staff in Iceland on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

“At the end of March, I had the privilege of walking the High Street with MP Paulette Hamilton and the Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster. We discussed the progress and future plans for Op Fearless.

“We all agree that while we’ve made strides, there’s still more to be done. Regeneration takes time, and we’re committed to tackling crime and making Erdington a place where everyone feels safe and proud.

“I’m optimistic about the future, especially with the collaboration we’re building between the new High Street team, the council, BID, and our security partners.

Erdington Police Station on Sutton New Road / Photgraph by Ed King

“The new team, consisting of six officers and a Sergeant, will be a constant presence on the High Street. They’ll be walking the streets daily, engaging with residents, and ensuring a visible and reassuring presence. Their focus will be on building relationships and maintaining a safe environment for everyone.

“As the Fearless team prepares to move to its next location at the end of this month, please know that our commitment to Erdington remains strong.

“While the team will be physically moving, we’ll continue to provide support and resources to the new High Street team, ensuring a seamless transition and sustained efforts to reduce crime.

Police tape on Erdington High Street as officers conduct investigation / Photograph by Ed King

“We know how important it is for you to stay informed about what’s happening in your community. That’s why we’re changing things up a bit. We want to keep that line of communication open and strong. So, from now on, you’ll be hearing directly from the person leading the charge on the High Street.

“I’m delighted to announce that I’ll be handing over this column to Sergeant Gary Grove, who will be heading up the new High Street team. They’ll be your go to source for updates on the work being done in the area.

“I encourage you all to engage with Sergeant Grove and their team. Share your feedback, voice your concerns, and continue to be an active part of making Erdington better.

“Thank you for your continued support.”

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless

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Erdington drug dealer jailed for possession with intent to supply thousands of pounds worth of crack cocaine and heroin

Words by Ed King

(Left) Drugs seized by officers during search of Kenyjah James car and residential address, (right) Kenyjah James following arrest for possession with intent to supply / Pics supplied by West Midlands Police

An Erdington drug dealer has been jailed for possession with intent to supply Class A narcotics including crack cocaine and heroin, taking thousands of pounds of dangerous drugs off the streets.

The arrest and processing through the courts comes as the Operation Fearless policing initiative continues to clampdown on crime in Erdington Town Centre – working alongside the recently introduced Erdington High Street police team and local partners.

Appearing before Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday 10 April, Kenyjah James, aged 25, pleaded guilty to the charges against him and was sentenced to four years in prison – avoiding a longer term for a crime that could have seen him face life imprisonment, based on the amount of drugs and his role within the supply chain.

Officers on patrol on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Operation Fearless and High Street officers apprehended James after responding to reports of criminal damage and anti-social behaviour on Tuesday 25 February, after the police were alerted to a man damaging a car park gate.

Whilst attending the scene, officers detained James and searched his vehicle – discovering around 190 ‘wraps’ of both cocaine and heroin and two mobile phones, with potential links to a drug dealing operation.

Following a further search of his home address, police officers discovered yet more Class A and Class B narcotics and charged James with possession and intent to supply a controlled substance.

Sign outside Birmingham Crown Court / Photgraph by Ed King

After sentencing, a spokesperson from West Midlands Polcie confirmed: “A man [has] been jailed for drug offences after he was arrested by our Operation Fearless officers in Erdington.

“Kenyjah James, aged 25, was sentenced to four years in prison when appeared at Birmingham Crown Court last Thursday (10 April).”

They added: “He had pleaded guilty to two charges of possessing Class A drugs including crack cocaine and heroin, with intent to supply.

“The drugs were… confirmed as being approximately 190 wraps of cocaine and heroin, with an estimated value of around £2,000.”

Operation Fearless has been in action across Erdington Town Centre since January 2025, making over 140 arrests (at the time of writing) and stamping down on crime and anti-social behaviour in the once troubled retail district.

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Handing over from the main Operation Fearless team, as they begin to deploy officers in other hot spots across the city, Erdington High Street has also welcomed a dedicated police team – including a Seargent and six uniformed officers that will focus on crime in and around the Town Centre.

The Erdington Business Improvement District (BID) is also “beefing up” their High Street security and leading a High Street Community Team of local partners and community groups, to further support the incoming High Street police team and retail hub.

A spokesperson from the Erdington BID told: “The extra policing we’ve seen this year, under Operation Fearless and now with the new High Street police team, has made a significant impact on the crime in Erdington Town Centre – but it needs our support to make it last.

Rainbow falls on Erdington Town Centre sign by Six Ways Island / Photograph by Ed King

“We will be beefing up our High Street security, who have a strong relationship with the retail community here and know many of the repeat offenders – and who can directly support both the Operation Fearless and new High Street police team through joint patrols and intelligence sharing.

“We will also be establishing a High Street Community Team, made up of local community groups and volunteers – to help with everything from supporting a series of family friendly events on the High Street, to litter picking and looking after the green spaces.”

They added: “Erdington High Street was once one of the busiest in the city, and whilst many businesses have moved online we still want a Town Centre that is a vibrant and family friendly place to shop and socialise.

“Following in the footsteps of Operation Fearless, the new dedicated High Street police team – supported by our Street Wardens and local community groups – gives us a chance to break the cycle of crime and make a real and lasting change in the heart of Erdington.”

To find out more about working with the Erdington Business Improvement District to support the High Street and Town Centre email: [email protected]

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless

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NEWS: Erdington High Street gets dedicated police team in a “sustained effort to reduce crime” alongside Operation Fearless

Words by Ed King

Rainbow reflection on Erdington Town Centre sign near Six Ways Island / Photograph taken by Ed King

Erdington Town Centre has been allocated its own dedicated High Street police team to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in the once troubled retail hotspot.

Working alongside the Operation Fearless policing initiative, the Erdington High Street police team will bring six constables, led by Sergeant Gary Grove, to the Town Centre – creating “a high visibility presence on the High Street to tackle the issues that matter to residents, shoppers and traders”, according to a West Midlands Police spokesperson.

The officers will also work with the Erdington Business Improvement District (BID) Street Wardens, conducting joint patrols on the High Street and sharing intelligence about criminal activity and regular offenders in the area.

Officers on patrol on Erdington High Street as part of Operation Fearless / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police)

The team will also work alongside local partners including Birmingham City Council and Transport for West Midlands, to further tackle crime and anti-social behaviour and build on the work already being delivered by the responsible authorities.

The dedicated Erdington High Street police force, led by Sgt Grove, has been operational since 4 April, working in tandem with the Operation Fearless team to share information and continue the “sustained effort to reduce crime” in the retail hub.

Alongside the 140 arrests made by the Operation Fearless, Sgt Grove’s new High Street police team have made a further 17 arrests in the past few weeks – keeping the pressure on criminals who have operated in the area, including those involved in drug dealing and shoplifting.

Officers talking to members of the public on Erdington High Street / Photograhp taken by Ed King

Sergeant Gary Grove told: “It’s clear to see the difference [Operation] Fearless has made to Erdington, and we’re committed to building on that.

“Myself and my colleagues have experience working as part of the Erdington Impact Area team – and we’re working hard to build on existing relationships around the area.”

Underlining the importance of working with Erdington locals, the business community, and the wider general public visiting the area, Sgt Grove added: “If you’re out and about in Erdington or have any concerns you’d like to discuss, please come and say hello to us.”

The Erdington BID is also currently establishing a High Street Community Support Team to work alongside Sgt Grove and his team – made up of local volunteers and community groups and addressing non-response issues.

The Erdington BID High Street Community Support Team will be investing more into High Street security, and offering help with activities including consumer and visitor advice, litter picking, maintaining the High Street’s green spaces, and helping busy businesses report lower level crimes.

A spokesperson for the Erdington BID, who act as the link between the local police and retail community, told: “Erdington High Street needs a constant, uniformed, public facing police presence – with the power to arrest criminals and process them to the courts – and having a dedicated High Street police team will be a huge support to the local business community.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sergeant Grove and his team to the area and offer our full support.”

They added: “Operation Fearless, and now Sgt Grove and his High Street police team, have given Erdington a real chance to properly challenge the criminal activity in Erdington Town Centre – but we can all help.

“If we want to keep the crime away, and to further deter those repeat offenders who have got away with too much for too long, it should be a team effort. If you live or work in Erdington, or just want to help make a difference to our Town Centre, then please get in touch about joining [the Erdington BID] High Street Community Support Team.”

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Operation Fearless

Operation Fearless was launched in January 2025, bringing a dedicated team of 20 officers to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour into Erdington Town Centre.

The initiative was supported by £880,000 from the Proceeds of Crime Fund, as allocated by the Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster – who has been a regular visitor to Erdington Town Centre, meeting with both businesses and the general public on the High Street.

Led by Detective Superintendent Jim Munro, the Operation Fearless team have made over 140 arrests [at the time of writing] and seized an array of contraband off the Erdington streets – including an arsenal of offensive weapons, and illegal drugs worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Operation Fearless lead Detective – Detective Superintendent Jim Munro / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

As the Operation Fearless team start to hand over to Sgt Grove and the High Street police team, alongside the pre-existing Neighbourhood Police Team (NPT) that covers Erdington Town Centre, a WMP spokesperson confirmed: “The [Operation] Fearless team will continue to provide support and resources to the new High Street team, ensuring a seamless transition and sustained effort to reduce crime.”

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro added: “The new dedicated High Street team will be a constant presence in the area, and although Fearless is expanding to a new location – our Fearless officers will be using their impressive local and operational knowledge to support them.”

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NEWS: Evacuated Perry Common residents allowed home after “suspicious items” found during raid on Hastings Road

Words by Ed King

Police car outside residential address on Hastings Road, Perry Common / Pic by Ed King

Perry Common residents have been allowed back home after being evacuated early today, following the discovery of “suspicious items” at a residential address on Hastings Road – just off Witton Lodge Road.

At around 9am on Thursday 20 March, locals living on and around Witton Lodge Road were asked by police to quickly vacate their homes, to make way for a bomb disposal unit which had been brought in to investigate findings of an early morning raid.

Concerns were raised by the police after a “pre-planned warrant” was executed in the early hours and officers found objects that may have been linked to explosive devices.

After cordoning off Witton Lodge Road, from Perry Common Community Hall up to College Road, police at the scene evacuated all residents – with some seeking refuge at Perry Common Hall, whilst others rested at the  popular Jacy’s Café on ‘the ring’ or waited on the central grassy area.

Police searching residential address on Hastings Road, Perry Common / Pic by Ed King

After a few hours, at around 11:15am, the police tape was finally lifted and residents were allowed back to their homes – with some having had to leave so quickly they were still in dressing gowns and pyjamas.

Residents with mobility issue were also asked to move, with police at the scene helping those that needed it to reach a safe place beyond the cordoned off area.

One local resident told Erdington Local: “The police knocked on our door and at first just wanted us to stay indoors, but then they came back not long afterwards and said we had to leave.

“It was still morning, and I hadn’t got dressed yet – it’s just a good thing it’s a nice {sunny] day.”

Police officers remained at the Hastings Road address, after evacuated residents were allowed back to their homes.

And whilst the officers at the scene were able to confirm there was no threat to public safety, the uncertainly about what caused the road closure and mass evacuation remained a mystery for most of those affected – with some residents reporting the army had been drafted in and others stating an old WWII bomb had been discovered.

Police removing bags of items seized from residential address on Hastings Road, Perry Common / Pic by Ed King

Erdington Local saw officers from both the local police teams and specialist units oustide and searching an address at Hastings Road – on the corner of Witton Lodge Road and opposite Story Wood Primary School – and removing several bags of items from the residential address and loading them into the back of unmarked police vehicles.

The neighbour of the Hastings Road address that was the focus of police activity, told Erdington Local: “I don’t know what happened, they just knocked on my door this morning at around 9am and told me I had to leave.

“I wasn’t given any information… [all the residents] were just told we had to leave [our homes].”

She added: “I’m allowed back in now, but they’re still here [and searching the address]. And I still don’t know what’s been going on next door.”

Police outside residential address on Hastings Road, Perry Common / Pic by Ed King

A spokesperson for West Midlands Police confirmed: “A cordon was put in place this morning after suspicious items were discovered during a pre-planned warrant at an address on Hastings Road.

“This cordon has now been lifted after the Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team confirmed there was no risk to the wider public.”

They added: “Nearby residents who were evacuated as a precaution have now returned to their homes, and we thank them for their patience.”

Police search a residential address on Hastings Road in Perry Common following mass evacuation

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NEWS: Residents evacuated on Witton Lodge Road amidst reports of bomb squad investigation

Police blocking off entrance to Witton Lodge Road by Perry Common Hall / Pic by Ed King

Words by Ed King

Residents on Witton Lodge Road were evacuated from their homes this morning amidst reports of the army and bomb investigation personnel attending the scene – with the area from Perry Common Hall to College Road cordoned off.

Police cars could be seen blocking the entrance to Witton Lodge Road by Perry Common Hall, with a bomb disposal unit seen further behind the police tape with several officers investigating.

Local residents at the scene told Erdington Local that police had knocked on their doors earlier this morning telling them to stay in their houses, before returning some minutes later to ask they fully evacuate the area.

Police blocking off entrance to Witton Lodge Road by Perry Common Hall / Pic by Ed King

Concerned locals then gathered around the grassy roundabout – colloquially known as The Ring – as well as local cafes and shops. Some residents were reportedly given refuge at Perry Common Hall as police and investigating officials conducted a search of a residential address.

“I had a knock on the door this morning,” told a resident from Witton Lodge Road, “with the police telling me to stay inside – then after a while they came back and told us to leave. I hope my cats are OK.”

Another family were also turned out of their house without knowing why, with one member still in their dressing gown as they stood behind the police cordon.

“I was heading to work at about 8:45am and I saw a few police,” confirmed one woman. “Then by the time I’d got back the whole road [from The Rin to College Road] had been asked to leave their houses.

Jacy’s Cafe on Witton Lodge Road / Pic by Ed King

Jacy’s Café on Witton Lodge Road housed several residents as they waited to be allowed back home, with many taking the time to grab a breakfast and check out if friends and neighbours were OK. Staff at the café, a popular local eatery, had not been told much information by local law enforcement but were keeping concerned residents safe and well fed.

Whilst Erdington Local were at the scene, at around 11:15am, police started taking down the blue and white tape and letting residents back into their homes – with officers at the scene stating there was no threat to public safety.

Police removing cordon and letting residents on Witton Lodge Road return home / Pic by Ed King

A spokesperson from West Midlands Polcie confirmed to Erdington Local: “We’re currently dealing with an incident at Witton Lodge Road. We will provide more details as soon as we can.”

Erdington Local has asked West Midlands Polcie for any further information they can release.

At the time of writing, all police cordons had been lifted on Witton Lodge Road and residents had returned to their homes

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FEATURE: Update on Operation Fearless – tackling crime and anti-social behaviour in Erdington Town Centre

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Operation Fearless officially launched on 7 January, bringing a specially recruited police taskforce to Erdington High Street to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in and around the Town Centre.

So far, the team behind Operation Fearless have made a raft of arrests from drug dealing and shoplifting and taken both offensive weapons and violent offenders off the streets – with those arrested sent to answer for their crimes in court.

A month after the official launch of the policing initiative, the officer leading the Operation Fearless team – Detective Superintendent Jim Munro – has a special update message for Erdington locals and residents.

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

“It’s hard to believe it’s already been a month since we launched Operation Fearless in Erdington. I’m really pleased to say we’re already seeing some real improvements on the High Street and in the surrounding area.

“You’ve probably noticed the increased police presence – more officers patrolling and we’ve been making more arrests too.

“A huge part of this success is down to some fantastic partnership work. My team has been working closely with the Council, immigration services, HMRC, and Transport for West Midlands. It really shows how much we can achieve when we all pull together.

“The support and feedback from local residents has been fantastic. We know people haven’t been feeling safe on the High Street, and some have even told us they’ve been avoiding the area altogether because of drug dealing and anti-social behaviour. We’ve also been talking to local businesses who have been hit hard by shoplifting – it’s been a real struggle for them.

“Since we boosted the police presence on the High Street, the difference has been noticeable. The community and business owners have told us they feel much safer. There are fewer suspicious characters hanging around, and the increased police presence has been really reassuring. Businesses are also reporting a decrease in shoplifting, and some of the most prolific offenders seem to have disappeared – which is excellent news.

Operation Fearless officers patrolling Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

“We’ve had some great results this past month. We’ve made over 36 arrests, with 16 charged and remanded, including some persistent shoplifters and people in possession of knives. We also carried out 60 stop searches, with 15 positive outcomes – that’s a 25% positive outcome rate. On top of that, we’ve executed eight warrants, recovering drugs and dangerous weapons from our streets.

“I know you, Erdington Local readers, and the wider community, will be pleased to hear about these results. I want to reassure everyone that we’re not taking our foot off the gas. We’re committed to tackling the criminals who pose a danger to our communities. I’ll be providing regular updates like this, so you can keep track of our progress.

And finally, if you see our officers out and about, please stop and have a chat. We’re always keen to hear your feedback and work with you to make the community even safer.”

Official launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park and on Erdington High Street 07.01.25

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless

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NEWS: Operation Fearless team seize “thousands of pounds” worth of drugs and weapons in series of arrests

Words by Ed King

Drugs seized by Operation Fearless after man arrested on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Police from Operation Fearless have seized “thousands of pounds” worth of drugs and weapons in a series of arrests and early morning raids across Erdington.

Acting on intelligence from the local community, the Op Fearless team bust down the door to a residential address on 31 January – uncovering an illegal cannabis grow and “several weapons” at the Erdington home.

As confirmed by West Midlands Police, one man was arrested and processed on “suspicion of drug offences” with an investigation continuing after the further discovery of weapons.

Two further addresses were also raided with two more men arrested, with both wanted by police for a recall to prison – meaning they had broken previous parole conditions and would be sent back into custody.

Operation Fearless in early morning raid on residential address in Erdington / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Studies have shown cannabis plants can each yield around 10-15 ounces of the Class B drug, with a street sale value of up to £3000. It is unconfirmed how many plants were discovered at the Erdington address but a cannabis factory can potentially squeeze hundreds of plants into a residential home.

Operation Fearless were also cracking down on crime on Erdington High Street and arrested a man on 3 February who the police confirmed “was spotted on the High Street in possession of cannabis.”

Shoppers and businesses alike have reported people on Erdington High Street taking and selling drugs openly, seemingly without fear of reprisal.

Following the initial arrest, Operation Fearless then raided the man’s home addresses in Erdington with West Midlands Police further confirming they “recovered thousands of pounds worth of drugs” – as pictured at the top of this article.

Cannabis plants found by Operation Fearless in early morning raid on residential address in Erdington / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Whilst the image taken of the illegal drugs haul shows the police had mainly found what is suspected to be cannabis flower and cannabis resin in the raid, which are both rated as Class B by the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, it also shows several bags of white and green powder that may be a Class A drug such as cocaine, crack cocaine, or methamphetamine (crystal meth).

Criminals charged for possession with intent to supply or distribute Class B drugs can face up to 14 years behind bars, as can those responsible for growing cannabis at home.

Possession with intent to supply Class A drugs can result in over seven years behind bars or even life imprisonment.

Operation Fearless Lead Detective Superintendent Jim Munro talking to media on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro, leading Operation Fearless, said: “We’re continuing to focus on crimes we know matter most to people living in Erdington.

“Local residents tell us they’re concerned about drug-related offences around the High Street and our officers are conducting specific operations to target this.”

He added: “Working in partnership with other policing teams, the council, and community groups – we will not let up in trying to make Erdington a safer place to live, work, and visit.”

Operation Fearless was officially launched on 7 January 2025, following Operation Skybridge, bringing a specially recruited team of officers to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour on Erdington High Street and around the Town Centre.

Supported by an investment of £880,000 from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC0), with the funds taken from proceeds of crime, the special policing initiative is being launched in Erdington before moving on to other areas across the city.

Operation Fearless team in group photo on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

DCI Jim Munro previously confirmed to Erdington Local the Op Fearless team “will continue to work here in Erdington as long as necessary” to hand the High Street safely back to local partners and the Erdington Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT).

Erdington Ward Councillor Robert Alden, who sits as Director of the Erdington Business Improvement District (EBID), also told: “Hopefully [Operation Fearless] can crack down on the serious anti-social behaviour and crime that’s been taking place on the High Street.

“Residents and businesses have been really concerned about that over the last few years, and we’ve been raising this with the police.”

He added: “And the key thing is, now there are all these additional officers here, is making sure both businesses and residents report any crime that they see.

“Because that information will get used and pooled together with other intelligence that other people submit and then enable [the police] to carry out raids, and to get warrants, and put people behind bars.”

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless/

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NEWS: From shoplifting to armed carjacking – Operation Fearless makes arrests across Erdington

Words by Ed King

Operation Fearless officers on patrol on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

Since officially launching on Tuesday 7 January, officers from Operation Fearless have been making a raft of arrests across Erdington – apprehending criminals from shoplifters to armed carjackers.

The Op Fearless team have also seized weapons from suspects on the street, raided the address of a suspected drug dealer, and used “community intelligence” to catch wanted and violent criminals and send them to court.

In a brief breakdown of some of the arrests made by the Operation Fearless team so far, prolific and agressive shoplifters on Erdington High Street have been caught, charged, and processed on 17 Jan, 19 Jan, and 21 Jan.

Officers have seized weapons, including knives and bats, from individuals on the streets on 12 Jan and 20 Jan.

Operation Fearless officers and dog patrol unit on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

On 14 January, Operation Fearless and local police raided the home address of a suspected drug dealer – breaking down their front door on Derrydown Close and finding 50 wraps of drugs and a zombie knife.

On 17 January, after being alerted by staff at a local pub, Operation Fearless police apprehended a man after he smashed windows at the premises – further finding a knife, and that the man was previously wanted for robbery.

On the launch day itself, 7 January, arrests were made for sexual offences and failure to attend a previous court hearing.

But perhaps some of the most audacious arrests for the Operation Fearless team were made after receiving reports of an armed carjacking, taking place mid-afternoon on Saturday 18 January.

Partnering with police in the traffic and firearms teams, Operation Fearless cops tracked the stolen Kia car – which had been taken from a motorist on Short Heath Road at knife point – and gave chase.

Kia car stolen at knife point stopped by Operation Fearless officers, working with traffic and firearms police teams / Pics supplied by West Midlands Polcie

After refusing to stop and even ramming two police vehicles, the fugitives were finally corned and forced to surrender. Three people in their thirties were later charged with robbery, possession of a knife in a public place, aggravated vehicle taking, dangerous driving, and other driving offences.

Operation Fearless have been funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner and will see 20 officers and £880,000 invested into Erdington Town Centre.

The initiative follows on from Operation Skybridge which was launched last autumn, and saw the police deploy extra resources to tackle crime across the wider Erdington constituency.

With an increase in “high-visibility patrols” and “targeted operations”, West Midlands Police state they introduced the special policing initiative to tackle crime on and around Erdington High Street – an area that has been a “hotspot” of crime and anti-social behaviour.

Operation Fearless lead Detective Superintendent Jim Munro on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

Leading Operation Fearless, Detective Superintendent Jim Munro told Erdington Local: “We’ve got problems here and now, there’s no two ways about that; we’ve listened to the community. Theft, anti-social behaviour, open drug dealing or drug taking… all key things that, quite rightly, concern the community.

“So those are the things we need to address straight away, and we need to look at those issues and how we look to deter offending. And how we look to reduce that and put people through the criminal process if appropriate.”

He added: “[Operation Fearless} will continue to work here in Erdington as long as necessary to hand it into a place, where we feel, it is sustainable to look at regeneration.”

(l-r) Erdington Ward Councillors Gareth Moore and Robert Alden / Pic supplied by Cllr Alden

Funded until March 2026, Operation Fearless are encouraging Erdington local businesses and residents to report any and all crimes they see, using both the improved 111 and 999 services and by talking to bobbies on the beat around the High Street and other areas.

Erdington Ward Councillor Robert Alden (Conservative), who sits as Director of the Erdington Business Improvement District, reiterated this call to arms to report and fight crime.

He told Erdington Local: “It’s vital that businesses and residents report any crime they see; it might be a partial numberplate, it might be a partial description, but feed it in directly to the police – or to Crimestoppers if you [want to do this anonymously].”

He added: “Because that information will get used and pooled together with other intelligence that other people submit and then enable [the police] to carry out raids, and to get warrants, and put people behind bars.”

Operation Fearless police team raid address of suspected drug dealer on Derrydown Close

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless

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NEWS: Police and Crime Commissioner confirms “no final decision” has been made on moving Neighbourhood Policing Team off Castle Vale

Words by Ed King

PCC Simon Foster at the launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park / Pic by Ed King

After months of speculation the Tyburn Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) could be moved off Castle Vale and relocated to Erdington Town Centre, the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Simon Foster has now confirmed “no final decision has been made” and any plans are “still under review”.

Castle Vale Local was first informed about the possible Tyburn NPT move in autumn last year, which would see the team of community police officers moved to Erdington Police Station – placing them at least 50minutes walking distance away from the edge of the Castle Vale estate and an average of between 12-20minutes if responding in a police car or vehicle.

A map of the area covered by the Tyburn Neighbourhood Policing Team / Image taken from WMP website

When asked for confirmation if the move was imminent, or being considered at all, spokespeople for both West Midlands Police (WMP) and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPPC) were initially unclear as to who would be making the final decision.

But speaking to Castle Vale Local at the recent launch of Operation Fearless, held at Villa Park on Tuesday 7 January, PCC Simon Foster confirmed that whilst “ultimately that is an operational policing decision for the Chief Constable and the local area police borough commander” his office was not aware that any plans had been finalised.

Chief Constable Craig Guildford at the launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park / Pic by Ed King

Furthermore, the West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford confirmed if there was a financially viable option to keep the Tyburn NPT on Castle Vale then “of course [the police would] look at that.”

He added: “In particular, it might be good as a touchdown point for some of our neighbourhood cops and PCSOs. So, I’d never rule anything out. But I’m just being honest and saying my job is to make the pounds go as far as I can squeeze them.”

In previous statements from West Midlands Police, after initial enquiries and calls for clarification, Superintendent Emlyn Richards told Castle Vale Local: “The Tyburn neighbourhood policing team remain based in Castle Vale, however, our lease on their office expires in 2025.”

Reiterating the Chief Constable’s financial concerns surrounding some operational decisions, he added: “Understandably we’re exploring all possibilities to ensure good value for public money balanced our commitment to delivering effective policing.”

Police car parked on Farnborough Road, Castle Vale / Pic by Ed King

When the possible move of the Tyburn NPT was first reported on by Castle Vale Local, Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin (Labour) and The Pioneer Group CEO Simon Wilson began petitioning the police for consultation before any plans were finalised – raising significant concerns about a spike in crime and anti-social behaviour if the public facing police team were to leave the estate.

Since being elected in 2022, Cllr Goodwin fostered a close working relationship with the Tyburn NPT police team and was seen by many, both stakeholders and residents, as having helped the police tackle crime across the estate.

In May 2024, Cllr Goodwin organised a ‘Crime and Community Safety Summit’ at Greenwood Academy on Farnborough Road, to address residents concerns over crime rates and police presence across the estate. The event was attended by many local residents, alongside Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton, PCC Simon Foster, and the then Tyburn NPT Sergeant Edkins.

Broken police tape by the old police station on Castle Vale High Street / Pic by Ed King

After the closure of the police station on Castle Vale High Street, The Pioneer Group had been providing the Tyburn NPT with working space at The Greenhouse – office facilities owned by the housing provider in the centre of the estate – where the local police ran a ‘pop up’ police facility for local residents.

This had been given by The Pioneer Group without rental charges, with the police only liable for “their share of service charges for use of space in our building”, confirmed CEO Simon Wilson, and if the NPT sought to renew their lease “the core terms [would] remain the same – share of service charges and peppercorn rent (i.e.no rent).”

Mr Wilson added “This was to help ensure we could keep the Neighbourhood Policing Team located on Castle Vale.”

In an open letter to both the Chief Constable and Police and Crime Commissioner, written and signed by both Cllr Ray Goodwin and Simon Wilson, the local stakeholders expressed their “very genuine concern” and called for any action to be “put on hold” until “meaningful engagement is undertaken” to reach a solution that would not see Castle Vale lose its uniformed police presence.

Police and forenics investigating a violent attack and reports of gunfire on Castle Vale / Pic supplied by local resident

Both West Midlands Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner continue to state that working with partners, such as locally elected officials and housing associations, is a key part of their neighbourhood policing strategy.

In the recent West Midlands Police Neighbourhood Policing Ambition document, setting out the regionwide approach to community policing until 2026, Chief Constable Craig Guildford states how the new “neighbourhood policing model [will] ensure we remain connected and engaged with our communities [and] continue to work with partners” – a sentiment reiterated throughout the sixteen-page mission statement.

Castle Vale Local continues to liaise with all parties involved and will keep our readers updated.

For more on the Tyburn Neighbourhood Police Team, visit: www.westmidlands.police.uk/area/your-area/west-midlands/birmingham/tyburn/about-us/top-reported-crimes-in-this-area

 

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OPINION: Operation Fearless – launch success as partners pledge to work together for Erdington

Words by West Midlands Police

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Arrests, vehicle and drug seizures and £500,000 of counterfeit goods recovered – Operation Fearless has officially arrived in Erdington.

Tuesday 7 January marked the formal launch of Fearless, a major new initiative to drive down crime and improve life in Erdington with a combination of high-profile visible activity and work with partners such as Birmingham City Council (BCC).

Around 150 people gathered at Villa Park to hear from Chief Constable Craig Guildford, Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster, and others about the ambitious plans to make Erdington a safer and better place to live.

Officers on patrol on Erdington High Street as part of Operation Fearless / Pic by West Midlands Police

In the afternoon, the Fearless team got to work in Erdington, supported by colleagues with dogs, drones, knife detecting equipment and even horses from Thames Valley Police.

The operation saw:

  • One man wanted on suspicion of burglary in the West Mercia area was arrested in an operation targeting criminals using the bus network to travel into Erdington
  • One man was arrested for failing to appear at court
  • Two vehicles were seized – one because it was being used in crime, and another because it was being driven without insurance
  • Six men were arrested for conspiracy to defraud over the seizure of £500,000 of counterfeit and illicit goods, including cigarettes, vapes, and prescription medication, in a joint operation with BCC’s Trading Standards team

The work of the Fearless team, made up of uniformed and plain clothes officers as well as detectives and other teams, will continue over the weeks to come, and will move into other areas, while working with partners to ensure that the improvements made in Erdington are not undone.

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro taking to media at Operation Fearless launch on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

Det Supt Jim Munro, who leads the Fearless team, said: “[7 January] was a fantastic launch and the support by partners from across the region, from the council to Transport for West Midlands, to immigration and children’s services has been phenomenal.

“We backed up our words with real action… making arrests and removing counterfeit goods from the High Street.

“Fearless will only succeed with the support of people in Erdington though. When you see our officers, chat to them about what concerns you have and where you think we should be directing our work. That will make a real difference.”

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless